Former youth baseball coach sentenced for sexual assault

PEORIA — A former Limestone youth baseball coach was sentenced to nine years in prison Monday for sexually abusing a teenage boy two summers ago.

Ronald Thomas, 51, of 3826 S. Wheatfield Way in Mapleton pleaded guilty in Peoria County Circuit Court to one count of criminal sexual assault in connection with the July 16, 2016, incident. In return, lesser charges of aggravated criminal sexual abuse were dropped. Without the plea deal, he faced up to 15 years in prison.

According to court records and Peoria County Sheriff's Office reports, the incident occurred at Thomas' house. A prosecutor said in court that Thomas' DNA was found on the teen. The assault charge also alleges he was in a position of trust but does not allege any use of force.

Thomas had served as an assistant coach for the Limestone Youth Baseball Association’s 12 and under team and had been on the association’s board of the directors. He has since been suspended from both positions, an association official said last year, pending the outcome of the court case. Thomas also served as a volunteer coach for the Limestone Junior Football League.

Thomas must serve at least 85 percent of his sentence, meaning that with credit for time served, he could get out of prison in about 7½ years.

Andy Kravetz is the Journal Star public safety reporter. He can be reached at 686-3283 and akravetz@pjstar.com. Follow him on Twitter @andykravetz.

Never miss a story

Choose the plan that's right for you.
Digital access or digital and print delivery.